What is the proper medical name for a removable cast? A brace is another widely accepted name for a removable cast used for medical purposes. What types of casts are there in use today and how are they made?
There are a few types of casts that are commonly used in medical practice today. Here are some of them:
1. Plaster Casts: Plaster casts are the most commonly used type of casts. They are made of strips of plaster that are wrapped around the affected area after it has been covered in a stockinette. The plaster is then moistened with water, allowing it to harden and set into a rigid structure.
2. Fiberglass Casts: Fiberglass casts are another type of cast that is commonly used. They are made using a fiberglass material that is impregnated with a resin. Once the material is wrapped around the affected area, it hardens and sets into a rigid structure.
3. Thermoplastic Casts: Thermoplastic casts are made from a material that softens when heated and then hardens when cooled. The material is molded around the affected area and then heated to soften it. Once it cools, it sets into a rigid structure.
4. Waterproof Casts: Waterproof casts are made from a variety of materials, including fiberglass and thermoplastics. They are designed to allow patients to shower or swim while wearing the cast.

Casts are typically made by a trained medical professional, such as an orthopedic surgeon or a physician assistant. The process involves first assessing the injury and determining the appropriate type of cast to use. The affected area is then prepared by covering it with a stockinette, which is a thin, cotton-like material. The cast material is then wrapped around the affected area, taking care to ensure that it is applied evenly and snugly. Once the cast has hardened or set, it may be trimmed or adjusted to ensure proper fit and comfort.
After conducting research, the following are the types of medical casts that are commonly used today:

Fiberglass Casts - These are made from a fiberglass material that is dipped in a polyurethane resin mixture. The mixture hardens and creates a lightweight and durable cast.

Plaster Casts - These are made from strips of plaster that are soaked in water and then molded onto the affected area. The plaster hardens and provides support for the injured limb.

Thermoplastic Casts - These are made from a thermoplastic material that softens when heated and can be molded to the shape of the affected area. The cast hardens once it cools down.

Waterproof Casts - These are made from a combination of materials such as fiberglass, polyurethane, and Gore-Tex. They are designed to allow patients to shower or swim without damaging the cast.

The materials and processes used to make each type of cast vary, but generally involve molding the material to the shape of the affected body part and allowing it to harden. The specific materials used for each type of cast also vary, with fiberglass, plaster, and thermoplastic being the most common.